Popular music devices may be increasing incidence of hearing loss

With the continuing rise in popularity of personal music devices such as mp3 players the risk of hearing loss at a younger age is increasing. Most of these devices have the potential to far exceed the recommended safe listening level of 85 dB. Some can reach 115 dB, the level you would hear at a loud rock concert. It does not look like the popularity of these devices is going to diminish. However, there are ways to listen to them safely:

Adjust the volume in a quiet environment
Use sound-limiting controls
Take 15-20 minute breaks to allow your ears to recover
Loose fitting ear buds can reduce the intensity of the sound

To arrange a hearing test please call Accurate Hearing at 252-3004 in Lower Sackville or 423-7734 in Halifax.